At 158,000 GRT, Freedom of the Seas became he largest cruise ship in the world when she made her in May 2006. More importantly, she was the most forward-looking, innovative and exciting ship the line had introduced to date.

The following are just a handful of reasons Freedom of the Seas will encourage even more cruisers to "get out there".

The Numbers

• 158,000 GRT
• 1,112 feet long
• 184 feet wide
• 28 feet draft
• 21.6 knots cruising speed
• 15 passenger decks
• 3,600 guests double occupancy, 4,370 guests total occupancy
• 1,800 guest staterooms
• 1,360 crew

The Experiences

• The highlight of the top-deck aqua environment, H2O Zone, features brightly coloured sculptures spraying water in all directions. H2O Zone also includes a circular current pool, a swimming pool fed by a waterfall and two hot tubs.
• Freedom's cantilevered whirlpools are the most exciting relaxation areas at sea, extending 12 feet out from the sides of the ship with spectacular views down to the ocean 112 feet below.
• From spending a lazy afternoon in a hammock to enjoying underwater music while swimming in the central pool, the jungle-themed Solarium offers an adults-only oasis.
• The main pool area feature a dedicated sports pool, which will be used for team competitions ranging from water volleyball to hilarious synchronized swimming contests. Lane markers are in place for lap swimming in between organised activities.
• Freedom adds new dimensions to Royal Caribbean's signature rock-climbing wall, with a 43ft tall by 44ft wide wall with a central spire.
• Families have six ways to stay together beyond triples and quads, including the Presidential Suite, at 1,215 square feet, which sleeps 14 and features four bedrooms, four baths and a 810-square-foot outdoor living area with whirlpool, wet bar and al fresco dining table.
• All staterooms feature space-saving, flat-panel televisions.